WHAT: Chapter 5 Lunch Meeting
WHEN: Thursday September 21st, 11:30-1:00
WHERE: Sonny Bryan’s Smokehouse 1251 W. Campbell Road, Suite 240 Richardson, TX 75080

Please join us to hear Julie Freeman discuss the Constellation of Living Memorials and the efforts to address neglected cemeteries and increase biodiversity.

Constellation of Living Memorials Two-year Pilot - Overview
The pilot plans to initially address six neglected cemeteries (see appendix in additional info section below) in underserved communities through the FWFC and the Native Plant Society of Texas
• Modeling Laura Bush’s Library Gardens at SMU and Texan by Nature, the landscape restoration program enables community to connect with the natural world to thrive together, while honoring Dallas ’ rich history
• Rebuilding native wildlife habitats within cemeteries expands green-spaces, revitalizes neighborhoods & creates thriving communities• Inviting communities to reconnect with their authentic local history, have access to nature for mental well being, provide safe places for outdoor exercise, and reduce the city’s heat island index
• Re-landscaping with native plants to develop self-sustaining biodiversity, enhancing the ecosystem = enhancing the health of the city
• Improving habitat quality within human-occupied areas increases the biodiversity and abundance of pollinators, improving pollination services throughout the environment
• Supporting and protecting the native wildlife offers new way-stations and expands migratory pathways restoring innate wildlife needs
• Linking to trails, each living memorial reconnects the present communities with sustainable “cultural landscapes” ….creating opportunities for learning

Marcos will also give updates on Convention, announcements for upcoming meetings, updates on communication activities, and plans for future events.